Dear Hornets Fans:

It is with heavy hearts that we must inform you of a tragic car accident last night that claimed the life of Brittanie Montgomery, a member of the Honeybees dance team. The accident occurred as Brittanie was traveling to practice. Brittanie, 19, was a native of Yukon, Okla., and studying child development at the University of Central Oklahoma. Please keep her family, friends and teammates in your thoughts and prayers.

“We are profoundly saddened by this tragedy, and on behalf of the entire organization offer our deepest condolences to her family. Our hearts go out to them as all of us cope with this enormous loss.”
-- Hornets owner George Shinn and wife Denise Shinn

“This is a devastating loss for all of us. Brittanie was new to the team this year, and in just a short time made a tremendous impact on our squad. Words can not describe how much she will be missed as a dancer, teammate and friend.”
-- Honeybees dance team manager & choreographer Ashley Deaton

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Hornets Encourage Donations in Dancer's Memory
Two causes near to Honeybee's heart will accept gifts in her name
December 23, 2006

Oklahoma City – Today New Orleans/Oklahoma City Hornets owner George Shinn and his wife Denise encouraged fans to further express their condolences on the passing of Honeybee Brittanie Montgomery by making donations in her name to the Mary Abbott Children's Home in Norman, Oklahoma or the Amyloidosis Support Group in Marietta, Georgia. The Shinn's were the first to make donations to both groups in her memory.

"We feel this is one way to keep Brittanie's joy and spirit alive," said Denise Shinn, who works closely with the dance team. "She touched the lives of so many people, and now her dreams of one day helping children and those suffering from amyloidosis will come true."

The Mary Abbott Children's Home served as the inspiration for Brittanie's pursuit of a degree in child development at the University of Central Oklahoma, where she was a sophomore. The Amyloidosis Support Group provides support and resources for people like her uncle, who is battling this rare disease.

Brittanie was remembered Friday during the Hornets game at the Ford Center with a moment of silence. The Honeybees bore black arm bands when they took the court in honor of their teammate. Hornets coaches and staff members also worn ribbons in her honor.

To make donations in memory of Brittanie, fans are encouraged to call the Mary Abbott Children's Home directly at (405) 579-5800 or visit amyloidosis.org to make a donation.